EAST MONTPELIER – Paul K. Manghi of East Montpelier, Vt., passed away on Feb. 3 at Fletcher Allen Healthcare. He was 63 years old.

Paul was born on June 8, 1946, in New Brunswick, N.J., to Gene and Alice (Miller) Manghi. Paul's father's army career led the family to Germany and Georgia before settling in Northfield where his father was stationed at Norwich University. After each move, the family would travel back to their roots in the NYC area to reunite with loved ones. Paul's Italian and German heritage led him to develop a deep love of family and family traditions revolving around food and winemaking.

Paul graduated from Northfield High School and then The Maryknoll Seminary in Glenn Ellen, Ill., with a B.A. in philosophy and religion, after which Paul enlisted in the army. It was during the years of his education that Paul had an inspirational group of friends of which Elaine Thomas was a part.

Paul and Elaine were married June 28, 1969, in Northfield. Paul served a year in Vietnam as an advisor for regional and popular forces. Upon his return, he obtained his master's degree in special education at Syracuse University. He worked in special education in St. Albans and then for Washington County Mental Health in Randolph. Paul and Elaine's family was completed with the arrival of Maria in 1974 and Matthew in 1976.

After 16 years in Montpelier they found their third "dream home," an 1840's farmhouse at the end of a dirt road in East Montpelier. The tranquil setting, simple beauty of the land and warm neighbors were a joy to Paul.

Paul put his heart and soul into everything he did. His magnificent garden gave a wealth of produce, which he generously shared with all. He was the consummate craftsman, learning old techniques to meet present needs. His post and beam shed was built patiently over three years, using only hand-tools. His winemaking was both a family tradition and a form of creative expression. His interests ranged from fishing, following the Montreal Canadiens hockey team, and constantly reading and learning. But his favorite recent topic was his grandchildren. He was known to say, "Let me tell you about my grandchildren. Do you have an hour?"

Paul Manghi leaves a legacy of faith, wisdom, community spirit, hospitality and generosity to all those who were touched by him.

Paul is survived by his wife and friend of 41 years, Elaine

Thomas) Manghi; son Matthew Manghi of Burlington; daughter Maria (Manghi) Stoufer and her husband, Steve Stoufer of East Montpelier; grandchildren Hazen and Stella Stoufer of East Montpelier; mother, Alice (Miller) Manghi of Northfield; brother Gene Manghi and his wife Bernie of N.J.; sister Maria

Manghi) Aronson and her husband Doug of Ore.; and a large extended family, and many beloved high school and college friends. Paul was predeceased by his father, Gene Manghi, and brothers Mark Manghi and Michael Manghi. A funeral service and celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, Feb. 13, at 1 p.m. at Christ Episcopal Church in Montpelier.

Memorial contributions may be made to East Montpelier Elementary School, 665 Vincent Flats Road, East Montpelier, VT 05651 or the Vermont Heart Association, 434 Hurricane Lane, Williston, VT 05495.

Those wishing to express online condolences may do so at www.guareandsons. com.